October is in full swing! We have auditions, costumes, and

production themes on our mind here...how about you? From Halloween

to the holiday performances to looking ahead for our 2010 events

it's all very exciting.

Many of the industry events, including UDMA: United Dance Merchants

of America Conferences are happening now which helps grow the enthusiasm of

costuming and the trends to look for this season.

In talking with dance studio owners I have a renewed appreciation

every year of the unique artistic process that it takes to bring

their productions to life. Some choose a theme first

then pick music and finally the costumes...others say it's the

choreography that draws out the right costumes. It can even be a

backdrop that makes everything come alive.

However you get inspired, whatever you do to pick the best

costumes, music and more for your pieces, it's one of the most

creative parts of owning and running a dance studio. Liks us, you

probably do alot of business with the vendors that provide exactly what you need

each year.

What I'm especially excited about this season is that with social

networking you can interact with the vendors online and some of

these companies are doing a great job answering questions, sharing

ideas, and even letting fans know when information is coming up and

specials as well.

This week's tip: When you connect, ask questions, post comments and engage

with the vendors you do business with via social networking it

is a great way to make a connection that goes beyond being a customer.

Likewise the vendors and companies that have a social networking

presence want and enjoy interacting with you. This creates an experience

for everyone that adds value.

We'd love to connect with you on our Dance Studio Owner Fan Page.

Let us know how we can help connect you with your favorite vendors,

post questions...and of course share your suggestions with us too.

http://www.facebook.com/DanceStudioOwner

DOWNLOAD: First Position Coloring Page

Next week we're releasing five new holiday coloring pages for our

members including Halloween, Thanksgiving, Nutcracker Ballet,

Jingle Bells and Winter Wonderland.

As a tip of the week reader you can enjoy this complimentary download

to use in your classes as an educational tool. This page reinforces

the basics of ballet technique in a fun, whimsical and enjoyable way.

Download a complimentary First Position page here == >

http://www.dancestudioowner.com/public/252.cfm

VIDEO: How to Create a Facebook Fan Page for Your Dance Studio,

A Two-Part Step-by-Step Tutorial

A Facebook Fan Page, otherwise known as a Page is a great way for

you to post announcements, connect with current and potential

students, and encourage social networking with your students and

parents in a positive way where you can control the content.

This two-part video tutorial will show you step-by-step how to set up

your page. http://www.dancestudioowner.com/members/448.cfm

VIDEO: Sir Ken Robinson: Do schools kill creativity?

I'm inspired by this 20-minute video from the TED conference by Sir

Ken Robinson: Do schools kill creativity? The last 5 minutes tell

the amazing story of Gillian Lynne, who is famous for her

choreography of the Broadway show Cats and Phantom of the Opera.

Give yourself the gift of 20 minutes to watch, it may be some extra

inspiration for you today and remind you that every dance class

taught, every student you help develop, and each day you stand for

creativity helps make the world a better place. You do make a

difference.

Enjoy the video here: http://snipurl.com/eqnmh